ART THERAPY
Art therapy at Treetops Hospice is a confidential, psychological therapy service for people affected by advanced or chronic illness, be they patients, carers or the bereaved. The therapy is provided in-house by a state registered art therapist and people can be seen either individually or in groups depending on their needs.
Art therapy can help people navigate the many losses and changes inherent in the palliative care journey with support. Whether through the demands of treatment programmes, facing the end of life, or coping after loss, art therapy can offer a new mode of expression which may allow people to communicate thoughts, feelings and experiences that often feel overwhelming, confusing or hard to put into words.
Art therapy is not an art class, the artwork made within a session is seen as a personal expression, making art therapy equally helpful for those with skills in art making and those who do not consider themselves to be creative at all. The role of the art therapist is to provide a safe and facilitating environment where people can feel free enough to use the art materials in this way. The art therapist then helps people to reflect upon what they have made and how it links to their life and situation. In this way personal insight and meaning can emerge offering new possibilities for adjustment, coping and resolution.
Carmen Varley (pictured on the left with art therapist Lisa Waugh) on what art therapy means to her: “Art therapy has enabled me to express my thoughts, feelings and emotions in an artistic manner. It’s quite surprising what comes out of the session and is really helpful to me coming to terms with my condition. Lisa, the art therapist is wonderful; so caring and understanding. It’s the best spent hour of the day.”
To enquire about art therapy, telephone 0115 949 1264 or e-mail ku.gro.ecipsohspoteertnull@yparehttra
More information on art therapy can be found at www.baat.org and for art therapy in palliative care, at www.creativeresponse.org.uk
